Former Jets punter Rick Sapienza dies at age 90
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 11:13 PM
Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Rick Sapienza, who played a pivotal role in the early days of the Boston Patriots and New York Titans, died on August 2 at the age of 90. In his only professional season, Sapienza fumbled a snap late in a 1960 game, leading to the Patriots securing their first franchise victory. After his brief NFL career, he became a teacher and coach, influencing future generations of athletes, including his son and grandson. Sapienza is survived by his family, which includes four children and seven grandchildren.
- •Sapienza passed away on August 2, 2026.
- •He played for the Boston Patriots and New York Titans in 1960.
- •His fumble led to the Patriots' first franchise win.
- •Sapienza later became a teacher and coach.
- •He is survived by four children and seven grandchildren.
- 11:13 PMYahoo Sports — Former Jets punter, key figure in Patriots’ historic win, dies at 90
"The two-way standout at Villanova had a brief but memorable pro career
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